Vinyl Liner & Fiberglass Pools in Florida

A high-quality swimming pool is a great addition to any backyard. From pool parties to lazy days lounging poolside to the potential for an increase in home value, there are many reasons for homes in sunny Florida to have a pool installed.

What makes Florida an ideal place for a pool? Known as the Sunshine State, Florida has a warm, consistent climate that is practically begging you to take a swim any time of year!

Plus, many Florida homes either already have or are designed to support a pool cage, providing the perfect built-in location where a pool can be installed.

From small to large and everything in between, Latham has pools of every size and shape to fit your lanai or pool cage comfortably! Even if you have an existing pool cage or lanai, giving your fiberglass or vinyl liner pool a makeover can be done with minimal hassle. Simply, replace a liner or install a fiberglass shell to refresh your poolside paradise!

You may have heard myths that Florida’s heat is just too intense for fiberglass or vinyl liner pools — but that couldn’t be further from the truth. With proper care and maintenance, a swimming pool can be a durable (and refreshing) addition to your home that the whole family will enjoy, season after season.

Read on to learn everything you need to know about designing and building a vinyl or fiberglass pool in Florida, including topics like how to maintain your pool properly, which construction materials you should choose for your pool, some of the most popular pool designs and features that are available in Florida, and more. And if you still have questions, our friendly team of experts is just a click or call away!

Fiberglass Pools in Florida

Considering a fiberglass swimming pool for your Florida home? We’ve covered all the basics you need to know before you dive in. Keep reading to learn about some popular Florida pool designs, the process of replacing or upgrading your current pool, and important Florida pool regulations that will impact your project, along with a few points about seasonality and fiberglass pool maintenance.

Florida Pool Designs

Pools can be designed in a huge range of shapes and sizes. Here are four of the most popular pool styles in Florida — with countless ways to customize each one!

• Rectangular – If you like bold, clean lines or just want a traditional look, a rectangular pool is a great option. Whether you want to go big, or just need enough space to get your morning laps in, a rectangular shaped pool is ideal. Some examples of rectangular-shaped pools include classic linear, Roman pools and such models as:

• • Olympia 12 – Timeless design and built-in swim-up seating makes this rectangular model an inviting and relaxing option.

• • Astoria – With swim-up seating,multiple entries and exits, a wading area that’s great for kids and a built-in spa, the Astoria model has it all!

• • Claremont– Make a splash with a simple-yet-elegant rectangular shaped pool that’s both autocover-ready and easy on the eyes thanks to breathtaking Crystite color technology. Enjoy a cool dip in this rectangular-shaped pool, equipped with swim-up seating and slip-resistant steps. 

• Freeform – Freeform pools are an attractive alternative to rectangular designs, especially if you want a natural-looking pool that will seamlessly blend with the curves and lines of your landscape. Plus, you can get creative with freeform designs and they work beautifully with smaller outdoor spaces. Explore a wide variety of freeform models, including:

• • Key West – Stylish with graceful curves and classic freeform styling, the Key West has slip-resitant steps tucked into the corner, swim-up seating and can be equipped with a number of features to suit your fancy. 
  • Cancun – If you’re looking for a thoroughly modern freeform pool, try the Cancun on for size! Curved, slip-resistant steps and swim-up seating offer a variety of relaxing spots alongside plenty of space to splash! 
  • Rockport – With its unique curves-meet-geometric angles shape, the Rockport is a traditional freeform pool that bucks convention. It features slip-resistant “wedding cake” steps and ample seating to make your pool the place to be!

• Plunge  – Think your yard or lanai is too small for a pool? Think again! Cute, compact, and easy to clean, the plunge pool is a space-saving solution for homeowners who just want a practical way to lounge and cool down — without the hassle of full-size pool maintenance.
  • Milan – For an outstanding example of one of these “fun size” pools, check out our Milan model, which boasts a 4’ depth, swim-up seating for enjoying a cold beverage while partially submerged and slip-resistant steps for a safe entry and exit.

• Kidney – Balancing the classical with the whimsical, kidney pools give a playful touch to the classic round or oval design. Check out some of our favorite picks for kidney-shaped pools, including: 

• • Valencia – With generous ledging to sit and Crystite color technology for a simply striking look, the Valencia is as gorgeous as it is roomy. Perfect for swimming laps or entertaining poolside!
  • St. Lucia – With tiered wedding cake steps and swim-up seating, St. Lucia is a versatile kidney-shaped pool, whether you’re looking for an inviting place for the kids to play, or a watery sanctuary to soak. 
  • Jamaica – With its sleek, timeless design and swim-up seating, our Jamaica model offers you a slice of paradise to enjoy in your own backyard. 

Choosing a shape and size is only part of the overall pool design process. Why not customize your pool further with gorgeous and functional add-ons? Here are three ways to add design flair and truly make it your own.

• Water Features – Whether you imagine a tropical jungle oasis, a serene Zen-inspired water garden, or the glitz and glamor of fountains in Las Vegas, water features are the perfect way to express yourself and add personality to your pool.
• Lights – Lights make it safer to swim in the evening while simultaneously adding to the ambiance. From a subtle glow to fun party lights, lighting lets you control the mood, look, and feel for a new experience every time you swim.
• Tanning Ledges – Now you can work on your tan while you work from home! After all, Florida is known as the Sunshine State. Take advantage and soak up the rays on a comfortable, sturdy, and spacious tanning ledge.

The best part is that your pool can be infinitely customizable. Choose any pool shape, size, and features you like, as long as you stay within state and local regulations and work with the layout of your property!

It’s also worth mentioning that different shapes and designs might work better, or be more popular, in different areas of Florida. If you’re curious about the best-selling and hottest designs in your location, contact our builders and we’ll be happy to guide you through the most popular local options.

Transforming or Replacing You Current Pool

Gunite (or concrete) was a popular pool construction material during the twentieth century. Whether you’ve chosen a concrete pool or inherited one as part of a new home you’ve purchased, over time, these types of pools can become rough on the skin. Concrete pools can also feel a little chalky after many years of use and not as smooth-to-the-touch as a fiberglass pool. While an older concrete pool can be resurfaced, the process can be quite expensive, ranging between $10,000 and $20,000.

While gunite remains popular today, there are often more economical options available that offer equal longevity and involve less maintenance. For example, if you have an old gunite pool which is damaged or needs to be replaced, you can save money by choosing fiberglass instead of fresh gunite as the replacement material. Fiberglass is exceptionally durable and can be installed in the same hole as the original gunite pool, where — with proper care and maintenance — it can last for 25 to 30 years, or potentially longer.

Florida Pool Regulations

It’s important to be aware of — and comply with — state and local regulations when planning and building a swimming pool in Florida. This includes regulations around drainage, retaining walls or safety features. For example, if you intend to build on a slope, you should know that under Chapter 18 of the Florida Building Code (1805.3.3), “[The] portion of the pool wall within a horizontal distance of 7 feet (2134 mm) from the top of the slope shall be capable of supporting the water in the pool without soil support” — one of the many regulations an experienced builder can help you interpret and follow.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that rules and regulations around pool safety and maintenance change frequently. While the information offered here serves as a helpful guideline, be sure to do your homework and double check your state and local regulations to be sure your pool is compliant.

Here are a few of the most common questions we hear about the regulations that affect the pool design and construction process in Florida:

• What is the maximum pool depth for a residential pool in Florida? Most Florida regulations limit this depth to eight feet, though exceptions may apply in some areas.   
• How far does a residential pool have to be from a building, like your house? Rules for this distance, called the “setback,” can vary from one municipality to the next. For example, in Jupiter, FL, under Sec. 27-3084, “Setbacks for a pool or spas as an accessory use to a single-family dwelling shall be a minimum of 10 ½ feet on the rear and interior sides, 28 feet on the front, and 18 feet on the corner side, unless a greater easement width exists, in which case the width of the easement shall be the minimum setback” — not exactly a straightforward set of measurements. Fortunately, our builders are here to help ensure you get an accurate reading and comply with the rules that apply in your location. 
• Are fences required around a pool or backyard in Florida? Under Florida’s Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act, specifically Section 515.27(1), “In order to pass final inspection and receive a certificate of completion, a residential swimming pool must meet at least one of the following requirements relating to pool safety features.” The code then provides a list of features that pool owners can choose from, with one possibility being that the pool is “isolated from access to a home by an enclosure,” i.e. safety fence, “that meets the pool barrier requirements [applicable under the code].” In short, a fence is one of various options you could use to satisfy Florida’s pool safety requirements.
• Are pool covers required in Florida, and if so, what kind? The same information about fencing applies to pool covers in Florida: though not strictly mandatory, they are one of various potential options to fulfill Florida’s broader pool safety standards, as you can see listed at Section 515.27(1)(b) (“The pool must be equipped with an approved safety pool cover”). As an added bonus, pool covers also help keep pests, twigs, seeds, and other items out of your pool water — even if a curious insect or wind-blown leaf happens to find its way inside your lanai.

It’s also important to remember that different towns or even neighborhoods can enforce their own regulations. Your expert Latham builder will help coordinate with local officials to ensure that zoning and permitting issues are all handled properly throughout every stage of your project, providing you with total peace of mind.

Florida Seasonality

Florida’s hot and sunny climate provides fantastic “pool weather” practically all year long! That means you get more for your money with the ability to enjoy your pool for the majority of the year, unlike some colder states where swimming is only possible during a short summer season.

Even when the weather gets a little too chilly for swimming, the pool still provides a great focal point for barbecues, backyard hang-outs, get-togethers around a firepit, or sharing a peaceful morning coffee on the lanai. When weather turns a bit brisk, an attached spillover spa can be a welcome addition, giving you a spot to relax in warmer water – or to ease sore muscles any time of year.  From Miami to Jacksonville and everywhere in between, Florida offers the ideal environment for getting a tan, taking a dip, or just enjoying the breeze — maybe while you catch a glimpse of some of the state’s fantastic wildlife!

During the off-season, such as January and February, you may wish to consider utilizing a pool heater and/or cover, which a builder can advise you on. Using a pool cover will also help prevent issues like algae, cloudiness, and scum from developing in the water during extended periods of non-use, such as any time you go away on vacation. Additionally, an automatic pool cover can help protect your pool during heavy rain seasons, keeping your pool’s water levels and chemistry at the right levels. Provided there are no large holes or tears in the screen, your pool cage or lanai will also offer an added layer of protection.

Maintenance

Fiberglass pools are prized for their comparatively minimal maintenance requirements — among the many other great benefits and advantages they offer! However, you’ll still need to take a few steps to help ensure that your fiberglass pool stays fresh, clean, and inviting. Here are some key points to know about fiberglass pool maintenance in Florida:

• Cleaning — Whenever cleaning your pool, be sure to use only products that are specifically designed for use on fiberglass. Our builders are happy to recommend a wide range of brands, accessories, and equipment to keep your pool clean, such as vacuums, filtration systems, and more. 
• Chemistry — Whether your pool is fiberglass or vinyl, you’ll need to learn how to maintain its chemistry to ensure that the water stays fresh, clean, and safe for swimmers to enjoy. 
• Covers — Pool covers pull double-duty, blocking leaves and other debris while — more importantly — preventing unsupervised usage and accidents. Covers can also help lock in heat and save you money on energy. 
• Algae — Algae can develop if your pool water is not balanced and cleaned properly, speaking to the importance of pool chemistry. If you’re already dealing with an algae problem, speak to a pool builder about the best products to use to get the growth under control fast.
• Protection — Along with using a cover, you may want to consider taking some additional measures to protect your pool against common pollutants like sunscreen, which can build up and interfere with filtration systems over time. For example, you may want to consider applying an enzymatic solution. If you have any questions about when to apply it, how much to use, or whether there are alternative options, contact our builders and we’ll be happy to assist you!

Inground Vinyl Liner Pools in Florida

Fiberglass is a great option, but it definitely isn’t the only choice. Vinyl liner makes a fantastic alternative with lower upfront costs, plus the ability to easily upgrade and change its appearance. Keep reading to learn more about the vinyl liner pool installation process, some basic points about replacing vinyl liners, tips on vinyl liner pool maintenance in Florida, and information about some popular — and stunning — design options.

Vinyl Liner Pool Installation Process

Although vinyl and fiberglass pools differ in many respects, both are installed following a similar process — at least, from the homeowner’s perspective! The process typically involves stages like excavating space, setting and installing walls, setting up plumbing lines, installing coping, backfilling the pool, and more. 

While each builder’s approach will be slightly unique, you can generally expect to discuss topics such as local regulations, the desired design and shape of your pool, and the layout of your outdoor space, which all play important roles in determining the ultimate budget and schedule of your project. Whether you’re interested in building a new pool or replacing an old one, our team has the expertise to make it happen seamlessly. 

Replacing Vinyl Liners

One of the benefits of a vinyl liner pool is that you can easily replace your liner to give your pool a new look any time. For example, you may want to experiment with different tones of blue, or try out different patterns (which you can also preview using our visualizer). Vinyl liners can also be removed to reshape the pool, which is a more efficient and affordable alternative to constructing an entirely new pool. Learn more about vinyl liner replacements — and whether your pool might be ready for one.

Vinyl Liner Pool Maintenance in Florida 

Proper maintenance will enhance the beauty and extend the life of your pool. However, vinyl liner pools have different maintenance needs than fiberglass swimming pools. Here are a few important points to know about vinyl liner pool care and maintenance: 

• Brushing. Vinyl liners can accumulate dirt and debris, which should be periodically removed with a non-abrasive brush designed not to leave scratch-marks behind. 
• Tending to the waterline. The waterline of your vinyl pool needs special attention. Be sure to clean it with a soft, non-abrasive sponge on a regular basis, which will help to prevent discoloration and the accumulation of debris.  
• Balancing water chemistry. If your pool’s pH levels are out of balance, the water can become murky or irritating to the skin, and the liner of your pool can become damaged or discolored. Fortunately, it’s easy to learn how to balance your pool water correctly. 

Getting rid of wrinkles. The liner of your swimming pool should feel taut and smooth. If you detect wrinkling, folding, or other changes to its texture or appearance, talk to a pool builder about potential solutions.

Designs

Vinyl liner pools can be crafted in a variety of shapes and designs, providing similar versatility and customization options as fiberglass pools. Plus, vinyl liners can be changed at any time, quickly and affordably creating a whole new look for pools that have aged.

Florida Pool FAQs

Have questions about owning a pool in Florida? We’ve got answers. Keep reading to find out:

• Are fiberglass pools OK in Florida?
• How long do fiberglass pools last in Florida?
• How much does it cost to build a pool in Florida?
• What is a good size for a pool in Florida?
• What type of inground pool is best for Florida?

What type of inground pool is best for Florida?

When it comes to building an inground pool in Florida, most homeowners choose either fiberglass, vinyl, or concrete/gunite, which are the three most popular materials used for residential pool construction. Each offers its own unique advantages and drawbacks, which means there’s no “best” option — only what’s best for you.

So how do you know which one to choose? It depends on a wide range of factors, including not only your aesthetic preferences, but the size and layout of your property. For that reason, we recommend speaking to a builder, who can go into depth providing you with detailed comparisons of cost, durability, customization options, and more. Here is one expert opinion from a Floridian – Brent Handy, owner of Paragon Pools:

“Fiberglass pools are an excellent choice Florida. The native ground conditions in Florida tend to be very sandy, and it is common to have water moving through the soil close to ground level. When properly installed, fiberglass pools can handle the very slight movements in the ground with no structural damage making fiberglass pools a very good choice for the type of pool to install in Florida.”

What is a good size for a pool in Florida?

No matter which part of Florida you live in, it’s important to choose a swimming pool that’s the right size for your needs — whether that’s a small pool to swim laps and exercise in, or a fully accessorized splash zone that the grandkids will have a ball visiting each summer. There are a range of factors that need to be taken into account when deciding on your pool’s size and dimensions, from your property layout and zoning requirements to whether you’ll be adding features like ledges and spillover spas. The best way to determine the appropriate size for your pool is to speak with a builder, who can give you a personalized estimate after learning more details from you.

How much does it cost to build a pool in Florida?

There are many factors that impact the cost of a swimming pool, including how large the pool is; how many add-ons or custom-built features it includes (such as fountains or ledges); the equipment and materials needed to construct and install the pool, such as choosing fiberglass over vinyl or vice versa; the type of coping your swimming pool features; and many additional details that your builder will review with you. 

Similar to determining the right size for your pool, the best way to get an accurate cost estimate is to speak with a builder. The more information you’re able to provide about your wants and needs, the more accurately the builder can estimate the cost of your project.

Are fiberglass pools OK in Florida?

Absolutely! Not only are fiberglass pools compatible with Florida’s climate, they also offer some potential advantages over gunite, concrete, or vinyl liner alternatives. For example, a few benefits of fiberglass pools include superior strength, durability, and resistance against wear and tear; reduced need for maintenance, like never needing to replace liners and lower upkeep costs over the pool’s lifetime. 

And speaking of the pool’s lifetime, that brings up another important question…

How long do fiberglass pools last in Florida?

Florida is known as the Sunshine State. While that’s great news for vacationers, all that sunshine can be tough on a swimming pool — especially combined with Florida’s humid, practically tropical climate. That’s why it’s so important to make sure you practice regular pool maintenance and use an automatic safety cover, which will help to protect your investment and extend the life of your pool. 

Fiberglass can be an excellent option for pools in Florida, thanks to its superior durability and resistance to damage when compared to other pool construction materials. Depending on factors like usage and maintenance, the average lifespan of a fiberglass pool is anywhere from 25 to 30 years. Some fiberglass pools can last for more than 50 years if they’re well cared-for!

Quick Fun Facts About Florida

Here is some interesting information about one of the country’s most dynamic states:

• Avg. number of sunny days annually: 237. Yes, you can have a splashing good time in a pool on a cloudy day. But, of course, nothing beats fun in the sun. Florida gives you an abundance of that. Source: Only In Your State
• Avg. summer temperature (June-August): 81.6 degrees. That number strikes us as poolside perfection! Plenty of warmth to make you relish every refreshing dip in your pool.
• Avg. winter temperature (December-February): 61 degrees. With a little heating in the winter months, you can enjoy your pool all year long in Florida.
• Type of soil: mostly sand. We can install a pool in virtually any type of soil. Source: gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu
• Avg. temperature of pool: 78-82 degrees in spring and fall, 76-78 degrees in winter. These temperatures are perfect for a quick dip after work or a full day of pool fun on the weekends.
• Avg. temperature of oceans in July: Atlantic – 82.6 degrees, Gulf of Mexico – 86.2 degrees. No doubt, you’ll still want to get to the beach periodically. But, how incredible it is to have water fun in a sparkling pool right outside your door!

Get Started on Your Pool Project in Florida

With balmy weather nearly all year, Florida is the perfect place to enjoy a swimming pool — not just during summer, but almost every day! A swimming pool is also an incredible lifestyle upgrade that offers both beauty and functionality, with practically limitless customization options. From visits with the grandkids to barbecues with the neighbors, to those days when the beach is just a little too hot or too crowded, your pool is an all-in-one centerpiece the whole family will enjoy for years to come.

Discover the possibilities with help from one of our friendly and knowledgeable builders. Contact us today to learn how Latham can help bring the pool of your dreams to life!